Dale Carlsen, founder of Sleep Train Mattress Centers Inc., was honored at Sacramento State’s Commencement ceremonies for his work and contributions on behalf of foster children.

Carlsen received the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters during ceremonies for the College of Business Administration on Friday, May 24, at Sleep Train Arena.

For more than 20 years, his Sleep Train Foster Kids program has been committed to supporting foster children by providing essential items including clothing, shoes, school supplies, and mattresses at their foster homes. And Sleep Train’s Ticket to Dream Foundation has raised more than $150,000 for Sacramento State’s Guardian Scholars Program, which provides support services to former foster youth when their state support ends at age 18.

“We are committed to raising awareness about foster children and providing support that shows they are cared for by the greater community,” Carlsen says. “We believe every child should have access to the same essentials that enable them to enjoy their youth and succeed as adults. Their success shapes our community now and for many futures to come.”

Carlsen has been honored for his efforts in business and philanthropy, most notably being named Sacramentan of the Year by the Sacramento Metro Chamber in 2013.

At Sacramento State, he received a Distinguished Alumni Award in 2002, and the College of Business Administration Alumnus of the Year Award in 2001.

“This is an incredible honor,” Carlsen says of the honorary doctorate. “I owe the success of Sleep Train and our philanthropic efforts in large part to my education and experience at Sacramento State, as well as my team of employee-owners who are instrumental in executing my vision each and every day.”

For more on Carlsen’s work, visit his Made at Sac State page. For media assistance, call Sacramento State’s Public Affairs office at (916) 278-6156.